10 Things You Should Never Clean with a Magic Eraser
Updated: Jul. 30, 2023Magic Erasers can be, well, magic. But before you get cleaning, here are 10 things you should avoid when using a Magic Eraser.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases.
Many people can’t rave enough over the Magic Eraser. This cleaning tool makes cleaning quick, simple, and overall making cleaning up spills less of a hassle. But not everything will be sparkling after using a Magic Eraser. In fact, there are a handful of surfaces that can actually become damaged when cleaning with a magic eraser. Maybe you can purchase some of these cleaning products professional housecleaners always buy in addition to your Magic Eraser.
Some countertops
Magic Erasers are abrasive, so avoid using them on delicate countertops such as marble and granite. Not only can you damage the sealant but the eraser may make the countertop appear dull. Make sure you aren’t cleaning your countertops with vinegar either and learn what you should use instead.
Nonstick pots and pans
Magic Erasers may feel like a soft sponge, but using one on your nonstick pots and pans can cause scratches to their surface. When nonstick pans become scratched, some of that coating can get into your food.
Stainless steel
If you scrub your stainless steel too hard with a Magic Eraser, you can actually make it look duller. If your stainless steel appliances have scratches, try sanding them out instead.
The outside of your car
While Magic Erasers can come in handy for removing dirt and grim from your car’s cupholders and dashboard, don’t use them to polish the outside of your car. The eraser’s abrasiveness can do damage to your car’s paint. See what people who always have clean cars have in common.
Wood surfaces
While Magic Erasers can be used to get crayon marks off a painted wall, don’t use them to clean wood paneling or other finished wood surfaces. The abrasiveness can strip away the finish. Don’t miss the cleaning products you should never use on your wood floor.
Glossy paint finishes
Be careful when using Magic Erasers on painted surfaces with glossy finishes. The abrasive eraser can damage the finish and make it look dull and uneven.
Collectibles
If you have any valuable collectibles, such as toys and hand-me-down jewelry, think twice before using a Magic Eraser to clean up old dirt and grime. Your collectibles aren’t worth the risk of doing more damage than good. See which 14 household items you can use to clean jewelry right in your home.
Toilet bowls
The Internet is full of Magic Eraser fails from users. One of those fails includes dropping the eraser in the toilet bowl to clean it. Since the eraser’s magic comes from its tiny microfibers which lift stains away, this tactic is useless—you do still have to scrub!
Skin
No matter how tempting it may be to use a Magic Eraser to clean ground-in dirt from your child’s fingers, never use it on bare skin. The eraser’s abrasiveness can damage skin and cause irritation. Learn if it’s better to be using antibacterial soap or regular soap.
Don’t use a magic eraser on anything without a spot test
If you’re unsure, always do a small spot test before using a Magic Eraser. The last thing you want is to ruin a surface when you’re just trying to do a little cleaning. Next, check out which cleaning products you should never mix.
